Today for our Student Spotlight we have a pre-professional student from The School at Steps. Meet Melo Ludwig!
When did you start dancing?
I started dancing when I was two years old. I took a “Mommy and Me” ballet and tap class and it was lots of fun! I continued taking ballet and tap each year and, as I got older, I started taking jazz too. After moving to New York City last year, I immediately signed up for classes at The School at Steps and was invited to audition for their Pre-Professional Program. I am just finishing up my first year in the program and absolutely love it!
Did you like it right away or did it take a little time?
I loved dancing right from the very start! I have always been the kind of girl who dances everywhere; at home, in grocery stores! The first time I danced on a stage was at my first recital when I was three years old. My mom was waiting in the wings and, when I came running back to her after my performance, I flew into her arms and squealed, “I love dancing under all those lights!”
What do you like the best about dance?
This is such a hard question, I’m not sure I can pick just one thing! I love how dance makes me feel like I can do anything! My body feels strong, powerful, and happy. I love going to class and look forward to all my classes each week. Most people don’t like Mondays but they’re actually my favorite day of the week because I get to go back to ballet class after a long weekend with no classes. Performing is another thing I like best about dancing. I love to be on stage in front of an audience!
What do you think is hard about dance?
It’s hard to watch older dancers doing certain steps that I can’t do yet because my body isn’t ready for them. I’m really excited to one day go on pointe, but it’s so difficult to be patient and wait for that time to come.
What do you think is easy about dance?
Staying focused in class is easy for me because I love dancing so much. I also find it easy to learn and remember combinations, probably because they are so much fun. My secret to remembering them is that I practice all the time!
What does it feel like when you are moving to the music?
It makes me feel alive, happy and free! Sometimes I close my eyes to feel the music and I feel like it flows through me. I make up my own moves to songs and let the music take me to another world. I listen to music as I go to sleep but, sometimes, I literally have to get out of bed and start dancing around my room. It’s hard to listen to music without dancing!
How do your teachers help you dance better?
My teachers are the best! They explain things really well and give me good corrections to help me become a better dancer. They are incredible dancers themselves and to watch them dance inspires me! They also teach great combinations that I love to go home and practice.
Do you think you will dance for a long time? Why or why not?
I think I will dance forever! A dream of mine is to dance professionally and I can only hope it will come true one day! I can’t imagine my life without dance.
